Shifa Hospital finalises preparations for Imran Khan

The Pakistani government has indicated that Prime Minister Imran Khan could be sent abroad for medical treatment if necessary, but there are procedures that need to be followed first. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry made this statement during a contentious Senate session in response to Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas's concern over inadequate health care for former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other detained PTI leaders like Dr Yasmin Rashid and Ejaz Chaudhry.

Chaudhry assured the House that the Supreme Court's judgment would be implemented "in letter and spirit". He explained that under the law, prisoners with health issues are transferred to government hospitals. When quipped about the UK hospital treatment acquired by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Chaudhry affirmed that the government would ensure that Imran Khan is provided medical treatment either in a government hospital or, if required, in another hospital abroad.

The minister admitted that the government had sought the Supreme Court's guidance to ascertain whether the court's decision applies to one individual or extends to other prisoners as well. He reiterated that if the legal framework permits, the government will abide by the court's decision. The opposition leader accused the government of failing to provide adequate health care to Dr Rashid, who is a cancer and asthma patient and cannot even walk 15 to 20 steps.

He further criticized the treatment given to politicians and parliamentarians branded as terrorists. The minister defended Dr Rashid, stating that she was present at the scene of the attack on May 9 and that the sentences were handed down by the courts, not the prime minister. The minister also said that the government would address Dr Rashid's health concerns with the Punjab government and brief the Leader of the Opposition on the matter.